Mizoram achieved a historic milestone in the nation's educational journey by becoming India's first fully literate state under the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative.
Mizoram: A Fully Literate State
A glorious chapter has been added to India's educational journey. Mizoram has achieved the distinction of becoming India's first fully literate state, boasting an unprecedented literacy rate of 98.2%. Chief Minister Lalduhoma formally announced this historic achievement at a special ceremony held at Mizoram University (MZU) campus.
This achievement was realized under the central government's ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative, where achieving a literacy rate exceeding 95% is considered mandatory for recognition as a fully literate state.
Mizoram: A Symbol of an Educational Revolution
Addressing the ceremony, Chief Minister Lalduhoma stated that this is not merely a victory of numbers but a reflection of the collective consciousness, discipline, and dedication to education of the Mizo society. He emphasized that this achievement is the result of the hard work of thousands of citizens who, despite facing barriers to education, never gave up their desire to learn.
The Chief Minister specifically acknowledged the 1,692 citizens who embraced education later in life, demonstrating that learning is a lifelong process.
Not an End, but a New Beginning
In his speech, the Chief Minister clarified that this achievement is not the culmination of a campaign but the beginning of a new era focused on education, skill development, and digital literacy. He stated that their next goal is to empower every citizen with digital, financial, and vocational literacy. This campaign will now propel Mizoram towards becoming a knowledge-rich society.
He urged all citizens of the state to harness the power of education and establish Mizoram as a model state not only nationally but also globally.
An Achievement that Makes the Nation Proud
Union Minister of State for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, also participated in the ceremony and congratulated Mizoram on this historic achievement. He stated that this day is a matter of pride not only for Mizoram but for the entire nation. Mizoram has demonstrated what is possible with organized effort, effective policymaking, and citizen participation. Jayant Chaudhary lauded Mizoram as an example of an Atmanirbhar Bharat in education and urged other states to draw inspiration from it.
How Full Literacy Recognition Was Achieved
Mizoram received this recognition under the Ministry of Education's "ULLAS" scheme. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-2024 report, the state achieved an overall literacy rate of 98.2%, with male literacy at 99.2% and female literacy at 97%. This rate surpasses the 95% threshold defined by the Government of India for the "fully literate" category.
Campaign Implementation
- The tireless efforts of the Mizoram School Education Department were instrumental in this historic achievement.
- Under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and the Nav Bharat Saksharata Programme, the State Literacy Mission Authority was established in the state.
- This involved the formation of a Governing Council and an Executive Committee.
- A State Literacy Centre was established under SCERT, which developed special teaching materials in the Mizo language.
- A total of 3,026 illiterate people were identified, of whom 1,692 voluntarily enrolled in education programs.
- 292 volunteer teachers were appointed, who conducted teaching in schools, community halls, and homes.
Now that Mizoram has reached this educational pinnacle, it serves as an example for the rest of the country. This campaign has proven that positive policy, administrative will, and public participation can enable any state to progress towards 100% literacy.
